education phd programs chicago

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At The Chicago School, you'll receive rigorous training and conduct research at the highest level.

Upon successfully completing a doctorate at The Chicago School, you will be prepared to pursue a career in your field, and be ready for licensure examination or other requirements. To accomplish this, our practitioner-scholar faculty guide you to complete rigorous curriculums that explore the latest research, techniques, and standards available. As a graduate, you will also demonstrate your collected knowledge through practical or hands-on training experiences that are tailored to your program.

Psy.D. Clinical Psychology - Chicago

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It’s time to take the next step. Reach out or apply now.

Dr. kortney peagram.

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• Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD
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School of Education

Aimee Ellis

Call:   312.915.7900

Email:   [email protected]

About the EdD in 3Cs at Loyola

Educational institutions need culturally responsive leaders who know how to make a positive impact on learners—and communities as a whole. Designed to equip teachers, nonprofit leaders, and change agents with research, pedagogical, and leadership skills, Loyola University Chicago's EdD in Curriculum, Culture, and Communities (3Cs) prepares you to advance your career and make meaningful change in education-related settings.

Program Structure

The EdD in Curriculum, Culture, and Communities can be pursued full time or part time . Classes are held weekday evenings at Loyola's Water Tower Campus , conveniently located off the Red Line in the heart of Chicago, and online.

Why Choose Loyola for Your 3Cs EdD?

In Loyola’s hybrid doctoral program in 3Cs, you will prepare to take on new challenges as a socially just educator and researcher in higher education institutions, schools, faith-based organizations, and nonprofits.

• A multi-modal EdD in 3Cs program
• Focused on social justice
• A transformative education
• Collaborative research opportunities
• Opportunities to network
• A chance to study abroad

Learn curriculum, culture, and communities in a hybrid doctoral program designed for working professionals and multiple learning styles. To accommodate your work schedule, our 3Cs EdD combines face-to-face evening courses with online courses.

Learn how to advocate for all learners, particularly the underserved. In Loyola’s program, you will approach education through a lens of social justice and challenge structures that have historically contributed to marginalization.

Build your expertise in curriculum and instruction—and learn how to apply it in multiple contexts. Our program is centered on several principles that contribute to your advancement as an educator, including curriculum, pedagogy and policy; research and evaluation; partnership and collaboration; and social justice.

Engage in collaborative research with faculty, community organizations, cultural institutions, and schools. This type of EdD in curriculum and instruction offers numerous opportunities for investigating critical questions in the field of education in research courses, electives, and your dissertation.

Connect with classmates and faculty in small class sizes, and strengthen those relationships as you advance. Our cohort model allows you to network and forge professional connections in the field throughout the program and into the future.

Study abroad in Rome, Italy, for a summer during the EdD in 3Cs program. You will stay in the John Felice Rome Center , a historic campus in the residential upper Balduina district of Monte Mario.

Teaching and Learning Department

The Department of Teaching and Learning is committed to transforming lives through teaching, learning, and research that aligns with our mission to promote racial justice and tackle complex societal challenges. Our graduates, shaped by a unique field-based curriculum, are highly sought after for their holistic, community-centered approach to driving transformative change in schools and local organizations. Learn more about the department and discover stories featuring current students and graduates from the School of Education. 

Meet the Faculty

Loyola is proud to have talented and nationally-recognized scholar-teachers as part of our diverse community of exceptional faculty, students and staff. Loyola faculty are known for their commitment to teaching, the dissemination of knowledge through innovative and interdisciplinary scholarly research, and a commitment to social justice and cura personalis, or care for the whole person. Visit the School of Education faculty and staff directory to learn more about the teachers and mentors involved with the Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD program.

3Cs: Career Connections

An EdD in Curriculum, Culture, and Communities prepares you to lead in higher education institutions, K-12 schools, and nonprofit settings.

Specific job options include:

• Curriculum director
• Educational researcher
• Community college instructor
• University professor
• K-12 educator
• Nonprofit director
• Policy analyst
• Religious leader
• Education consultant
• Higher education administrator

Because Loyola is a member of the Jesuit network of 27 colleges and universities nationwide, our graduates can access career advising services, resume and interviewing assistance, career fairs and events, and employment listings in our Career Services center , as well as at career centers at other U.S. Jesuit colleges and universities.

Job Outlook

The Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) Occupational Outlook Handbook is a good place to start exploring the job outlook and pay potential for specific careers and fields that interest you.

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Curriculum and Program Outcomes

While courses for the Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD program may vary from semester to semester, Loyola’s extensive Academic Catalog will always house the official listing of courses, programs of study, academic policies, degree requirements, and specialization or concentration options. Additionally, this resource will provide Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD learning outcomes, showcasing the commitment to specific skills and growth graduates can expect to achieve following completion of the program.

2024-2025 Catalog

Edd in 3cs results and skills.

Our EdD in curriculum, culture, and communities helps you develop your research, pedagogical, and leadership skills so you can create a positive impact on learners, teachers, and communities in a globalized world. After earning your EdD in Curriculum, Culture, and Communities, you will have developed the following skills, among others:

• Research and analysis
• Pedagogical development
• Collaboration
• Cultural competence
• Curriculum design, implementation, and evaluation
• Community development
• Problem-solving
• Writing and communication

Costs, Scholarships, and Aid

Loyola University Chicago is committed to making your graduate and professional studies a reality. Our Cost & Financial Aid page can help better inform you about the costs and potential funding opportunities through scholarships, loans, and aid for graduate and professional education.

Tuition and Costs

The estimated tuition and fees for the Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD totals $ 61500 .00, or 60 credit hours at a cost of $1,025.00 per credit hour. Please note that tuition and fees for all of Loyola's academic programs are subject to change.

For more detailed information about tuition and fees, and a breakdown of how these costs are calculated on a yearly basis, please visit Tuition and Fees from the Office of the Bursar.

School of Education Financial Aid & Scholarships

Visit the School of Education Scholarships page for detailed information about eligible scholarships. More information about financial aid opportunities can be found on the Financial Aid Office website .

Appointments and Events

Whether you’re just beginning your search, in the midst of the application process, or eager to explore our graduate and professional programs, our admissions staff is here to assist you every step of the way.

The School of Education offers graduate open houses, information sessions, individual appointments, open Zoom and text sessions, and a multitude of other ways to get to know us better.

Upcoming Events

Join our faculty to discuss our Curriculum, Culture, and Communit...

Visit and Connect With Us

With our visit opportunities , you can tour our beautiful Chicago campuses and learn more about Loyola's ties to one of the most prestigious cities in the world.

Application Process

Application deadlines.

The available start terms and corresponding application deadlines for the Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD are listed below. Please keep in mind that both the application and the required materials must be submitted by the specified deadline.

Fall Priority: January 15 General: March 15 Please note that applications are not reviewed until the deadline passes, and decisions are typically made within 3 weeks.

Application Requirements

Application requirements for the Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD include:

Official transcripts from all institutions attended

2 Letters of Recommendation

3.0 Minimum GPA

Statement of Purpose

Statement of Purpose Details

Your statement should be 2-3 pages and describe your academic and research interests, professional goals, and life experiences that have influenced your view of social justice.

Official Documents

Official transcripts are those that are sent directly by the college/university to Loyola University Chicago. Transcripts sent by the student to Loyola are considered unofficial documents, and while they may be utilized for initial review of your application, official transcripts are still required. Official documents should be sent by the institution to [email protected] .

An official English language proficiency exam is required for international applicants whose native language is not English. If you have non-U.S. educational credentials, you are required to submit an official transcript evaluation. The transcript evaluation cannot be waived. Please visit our International Applicant Requirements page for specific information regarding the application process for international students.

Start Your Application

Applying online to the Curriculum, Cultures, and Communities EdD program is a swift, uncomplicated, and cost-free process. After submission, you can proceed to send and upload any additional requirements.

Related Programs

Doctoral | Part-Time Only | Hybrid, On-Campus, Online | Fall

University and college administrators help shape the future of education, impacting the lives of countless students, faculty, and communities. Perhaps now more than ever, colleges and universities need effective, social justice-oriented leaders. This program will prepare you for executive-level leadership in higher education institutions.

Masters | Part-Time or Full-Time | On-Campus, Online | Summer

Classrooms and communities are more diverse than ever and educators committed to celebrating that diversity are needed. Approaching bilingual education by centering on student strengths rather than deficits, this program enables you to promote equity in your classroom, school, and community.

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College of Education > Academics > Leadership, Language & Curriculum > Graduate Programs > Educational Leadership (PhD)

Educational Leadership (PhD)

Advance your career with a phd in educational leadership.

DePaul’s PhD in Educational Leadership program will prepare you with the skills you need to effectively lead organizations and implement systemic change within them. As a trained leader in education, you’ll learn to drive change and organizational growth with innovation and meaning.

In program coursework, you’ll

• apply critical thinking and scholarship that involve equity and social justice
• gain a comprehensive knowledge of the field and of research design and methods, with an emphasis on a particular area of interest
• connect theory with practice, often in non-traditional and unconventional ways

As you pursue your PhD in Educational Leadership, you’ll choose one of two concentrations.

• The General Concentration provides a rich knowledge base to analyze administrative practices with a focus on pre-K–12 education or any education related field.
• The Higher Education concentration focuses on the specific needs of higher education institutions. You’ll be prepared for a leadership, administrative, policy or management position at a college or university or any related field.

In our PhD in Educational Leadership program, endorsements are available for principal licensure and superintendent licensure.

Lead your students to success

DePaul partners with Chicago Public Schools, the fourth-largest public school district in the country. We also have close ties with the Archdiocese of Chicago (the nation’s largest private school system), as well as suburban public, independent and charter schools throughout the Chicago area. Our long-standing relationships with these schools and systems will provide you with access to leaders in the field who can help guide your career.

Application Deadlines

Applications are reviewed on a continuous basis. Priority deadlines for scholarships are:

• Fall: August 15
• Winter: December 1
• Spring: March 1
• Summer: May 1

Submit an online application, official transcripts, résumé, letters of recommendation, a personal statement and a writing sample.

Required Courses

You’ll take six core courses, five research courses, an elective, five concentration courses and two dissertation courses.

DePaul’s Educational Leadership doctoral program stands as the 4th largest in the country.

of Educational Leadership graduates were employed, continuing their education or pursuing other goals within six months of graduation.

Alumni Network

As a trained leader in education, you join a community of educators in administration as principals, curriculum directors and superintendents, and directors of enrollment systems. Educational Leadership graduates are employed at a wide range of Chicago-area universities, community colleges, school districts, and private and public schools.

Scholarships

Graduate school is an investment in your future. Learn more about the financial aid and scholarship opportunities available to you.

Contact Information

For more information, contact the Office of Graduate Admission for DePaul’s College of Education at (773) 325-4405 or [email protected] .

Take the next step

We’ll send you information about the degree, admission requirements and upcoming info sessions. Let’s get started.

Graduate Programs

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2024-2025 Academic Catalog

Leadership: early childhood education (edd) (phd).

The Ph.D./Ed.D. program in Early Childhood Education is designed to provide candidates with a strong background in research, theory, issues, policies, advocacy and practical experiences in early childhood. Our graduates are prepared as faculty and leaders to design and implement early childhood educational programs in a variety of settings, including: public and private schools and universities, corporate child centers, and for- and nonprofit early childhood community-based centers. The program aligns to the National Association for the Education of Young Children (NAEYC) Advanced Standards. The program will enable candidates to:

• Understand and promote theoretical and evidence-based foundations of early childhood development and educational learning processes.
• Build and engage in early childhood practices that develop awareness, understanding, respect, and valuing of differences and relationships in families, communities and society.
• Use a variety of assessment tools and practices to plan, evaluate and communicate effective practices in early childhood curriculum and program evaluation.
• Use developmentally effective instructional approaches that are research-based and grounded in theoretical frameworks to support student learning and family connections.
• Use content knowledge that fosters an understanding of early childhood education through research and analysis skills that will further and support current knowledge across academic disciplines.
• Engage in and view professional learning and leadership in advocacy, administration and organization of early childhood programs as a career-long effort and responsibility.
• Participate in a variety of field experiences to further develop knowledge, skills and professional dispositions necessary to promote the development and learning of young children across the entire developmental period of early childhood education.

General Graduate Admission Requirements

All applicants must meet the general admission requirements for Concordia University Chicago graduate programs as published in the Concordia University Chicago academic  catalog .

New students are accepted into graduate degree-seeking, certificate, endorsement and/or post-graduate programs for online and on-campus study in the fall, spring, or summer semesters.  Previously admitted students seeking to change programs may do so at the beginning of a semester (only) by submitting a Change-of-Program quick app .  Applicants must be in good academic standing according to Concordia University Chicago’s satisfactory academic progress standards at the time of requesting a program change.

Students awarded the Ed.S. in Leadership (non-licensure) at CUC are not eligible for admission to this doctoral program at CUC. 

Program-Specific Admission Requirements

In addition to admission requirements, two years of teaching, child care or related experience acquired prior to completion of the doctoral program. Employer documentation of this experience must be included on the application for Graduate Admission or within a letter of recommendation. 

Degree Requirements for Ed.D. Track

Upon completion of the nine required hours of dissertation coursework, candidates must maintain continuous enrollment with DISS-8000 Dissertation Supervision until program completion.

Degree Requirements for Ph.D. Track

Doctoral Graduation Requirements

• Have on file an application as a doctoral graduate student in this program.
• Have on file one official transcript from EACH college/university attended of all previous coursework taken.
• the credit hours and levels as designated,
• within the specified time limit,
• with grades of C- or higher,
• with a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0. 
• Students completing multiple advanced programs or degrees at CUC must have a 3.0 GPA in each academic program in addition to a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0.  
• If transfer credit is approved to be applied: have on file an approved “Graduate Transfer Credit Approval” form(s) or evaluation(s).
• Have on file the Intent to Graduate/Complete form with the Office of the Registrar by the published deadline.
• Have on record the dissertation uploaded into ProQuest.
• Take and pass the final examination or terminal requirements in the program during or after the final course.
• Approval of the faculty.
• All administrative obligations to CUC must be cleared in order to prompt the release of CUC transcripts and diploma(s).

Every attempt has been made to include information to aid the student with information about his/her program, degree and graduation/completion requirements. It is, however, the student’s responsibility to complete all steps and meet all deadlines relevant to graduation requirements.

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College of Education

Degree programs, programs heading link copy link, undergraduate programs.

• BA Human Development & Learning
• BA Urban Education - Elementary Education (leads to licensure)
• Minor in Education
• Minor in Instructional Design and Training

Master's Programs

• MEd Early Childhood Education (with licensure option)
• MEd Instructional Leadership - Educational Studies
• MEd Instructional Leadership - Policy Studies
• MEd Language, Literacies & Learning
• MEd Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics & Assessment (MESA) on-campus
• MEd Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics & Assessment (MESA) Online
• MEd Science Education (with licensure option)
• MEd Special Education (with licensure option)
• MEd Urban Higher Education
• MEd Youth Development
• MS in Applied Behavior Analysis, Disability, and Diversity in Urban Society

Doctoral Programs

• EdD Urban Education Leadership
• PhD Critical Pedagogies & Urban Teacher Education
• PhD Educational Psychology – Human Development & Learning
• PhD Educational Psychology – Measurement, Evaluation, Statistics & Assessment (MESA)
• PhD Literacy, Language & Culture
• PhD Mathematics & Science Education
• PhD Policy Studies in Urban Education - Education, Leadership, and Policy
• PhD Policy Studies in Urban Education - Social Foundations of Education
• PhD Special Education

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Funding Packages

The University of Chicago offers most doctoral students competitive funding packages, which cover tuition and student health insurance, as well as a stipend for living expenses and research support. In most PhD programs, these awards are available for the duration of a student’s program. Programs which are exceptions articulate their policies clearly on their own web sites. Because the cost of living in Chicago is notably lower than in many other major cities, our stipends allow for a comfortable lifestyle. For more information about specific funding for your degree program, please refer to the websites of the programs (or the division or school) you intend to apply to.

In addition to the funding packages offered by the University, a wealth of additional opportunities are available, including prestigious fellowships which support language study, travel, or dissertation research; and on- and off-campus positions such as internships which allow students to explore other career paths.

Fellowships

UChicago students are among the leading recipients of competitive external funding – in fact, our graduate students have received more Fulbright–Hays dissertation awards than those from any other institution. Most divisions and schools, as well as many individual programs and departments, maintain lists of fellowships and other funding sources relevant to students in their fields. In addition to these tailored resources, UChicagoGRAD provides information on a wide range of fellowship opportunities and support throughout the fellowship process for currently enrolled UChicago graduate students.

Academic & Career Development

UChicagoGRAD supports graduate and professional students by providing information and advice on funding opportunities and student resources. Explore instructional videos, sample essays, and informational databases. We also offer one-on-one counseling and assistance with applying for various fellowships.

Fellowship Database

The University maintains a  Fellowships Database , a robust listing of fellowships. It’s important to explore fellowships and scholarships from all sources, and apply while you are applying to graduate programs, as the deadlines are usually during the academic year before you would receive the award. We also encourage you to explore scholarship or loan program opportunities in your local community, from your country’s government agencies, and other sources, especially as many fellowships do have citizenship requirements.

Office of Multicultural Student Affairs (OMSA)

In addition to the list of fellowships available here , there are other resources available as well.  The Office of Multicultural Student Affairs  (OMSA) supports the academic success of students of color at the University of Chicago and works to build an inclusive campus community. OMSA offers  grants and funding , as well as  career and professional resources .

Student Employment

During their time at UChicago, students can find a variety of employment opportunities that support and complement their education without interfering with their studies. On- and off-campus internships such as the Higher Education Interns program offer students an opportunity to explore options and gain skills, and several services help connect students to these positions or directly employ students.

Student Jobs Database

The  University of Chicago Student Employment site  requires a UChicago CNet ID to access fully, lists a wide range of jobs for current students, including teaching and assistantship opportunities.

Marketplace by the Chicago Maroon

The  Maroon , a university-specific site is similar to Craig’s List, has postings for jobs in addition to a wide array of other offerings.

Neighborhood Schools Program (NSP)

The  Neighborhood Schools Program  employs work-study and some non-work-study students in area schools and community organizations as teaching assistants and tutors, technology assistants, and more.

University Community Service Center (UCSC)

The  University Community Service Center  facilitates off-campus work-study jobs with Chicago area nonprofit organizations focusing on research, community outreach, communications, direct service with children, and more.

University of Chicago Medicine Employment

University of chicago medicine’s employment database  is full- and part-time administrative and clerical positions at the on-campus medical center., chicago center for teaching (cct).

The  Chicago Center for Teaching  offers workshops, seminars, and consultation to hone your teaching skills, as well as employing current graduate students, and may have information on local institutions seeking instructors.

Employment Information for International Students

The  Office of International Affairs  (OIA) maintains information on the forms and requirements for international students with F-1 or J-1 status who seek employment in the United States.

Loan Programs

Loan programs augment any other funding students have received from the University and from outside funding sources. Find details of all loan programs and application instructions on the Graduate Financial Aid website . . In order to apply for US Federal student loans through the University, you will need to complete and submit your FAFSA as soon as possible; to receive your US Federal aid award from Graduate Financial Aid, you must first create your University ID (“CNet ID”) and establish your UChicago email account.

Educational Benefits for Military Affiliates

The University of Chicago welcomes veterans and other military-affiliated students to our community. The University’s Office for Military-Affiliated Communities (OMAC)  helps military-affiliated individuals obtain educational benefits from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs and Department of Defense, and provides a range of other services as well.

Specialist advisers in the  Office of the Registrar  and the Office for Military-Affiliated Communities assist individuals who need enrollment certification or other documentation. We encourage military-affiliated prospective students to consult with OMAC by contacting them at [email protected] .

The Yellow Ribbon Program: This program provides funding for post-9/11 servicemen and women to attend the University, in partnership with the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. Yellow Ribbon applicants must be admitted and have confirmed their intent to enroll into an academic program before submitting a Yellow Ribbon application to the University of Chicago, and acceptance in the program is on a first-come, first-serve basis, although most programs do not limit the number of participants.

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Graduate College

Doctoral degrees, minimum semester hours required.

At least 96 from the baccalaureate or at least 64 from the master’s degree; some degree programs require more.

Credit for Prior Master’s Degree

Doctoral candidates who have previously earned a master’s degree or its equivalent from UIC or another accredited institution may be granted 32 semester hours of credit toward the doctoral degree if approved by the program and the Graduate College at the time of admission. Degree equivalency from foreign institutions is determined by the Office of Admissions. The 32 hours are subtracted from the total hours required from the baccalaureate. The 32 hours are not included in the maximum allowed transfer credit limit. A student petition is not required.  Approval is handled internally between the degree program and the Graduate College..

At least 48 semester hours beyond the master’s level or its equivalent must be taken at UIC. The formal course requirements for a master’s degree must be met within the 96 hours.

Credit: Only 400- and 500-level courses can be applied to the degree. Credit toward a graduate degree is only given for courses in which a student received a grade of A, B, C, CR, or S. Graduate programs may establish higher standards.

Registration: Doctoral candidates must be registered for credit the term when they take the preliminary exam. Doctoral students are not eligible for Zero-Hour registration in the term taking the preliminary exam. Students must also register each semester (excluding summer) after passing the preliminary examination and until successfully defending the dissertation. Students must register for the summer term if taking the preliminary exam or defending the dissertation during that term.  Students who hold a fellowship, assistantship, or tuition and fee waiver must register each semester for the number of hours required by their award, even if they have completed all degree requirements except the dissertation. (See Course Loads , Financial Awards section).

Students who do not hold a fellowship, assistantship, or tuition and fee waiver, and who have completed all degree requirements except the dissertation, and who do not wish to register for additional coursework, must register for Zero Hours .

Foreign Language

Not required by the Graduate College; may be required by the program.

Examinations

Departmental Qualifying Examination: Not required by the Graduate College; may be required by the program.

Preliminary Examination (Admission to Candidacy): Purpose: The purpose of the Preliminary Examination is to determine the candidate’s readiness to undertake dissertation research, and passing it constitutes formal Admission to Candidacy. The examination serves as the last major step toward the Ph.D. degree except for the completion and defense of the dissertation. The examination provides the student with timely feedback of the faculty’s views of his/her potential for completing the Ph.D. Program. The preliminary examination is distinct from the oral defense of the dissertation project.

Although the Preliminary Examination is administered by the academic program, it is considered a Graduate College exam.

Timing: The preliminary examination is generally administered during or near the end of the time the student has completed most, though not necessarily all, of the coursework, but has not made a major investment of time and effort towards the dissertation research project. A minimum of one year has to elapse before the defense of the dissertation after passing the preliminary examination. Students who are making excellent progress may petition the Graduate College to hold their dissertation defense less than one year from the preliminary examination. Only students in good academic standing are permitted to take the examination.

Committee Composition: The committee for the preliminary examination is appointed by the Dean of the Graduate College upon the recommendation of the department or program. The committee consists of at least five (5) members, of whom at least three (3) are UIC Graduate Faculty with full membership, and two (2) of whom must be tenured. The chair of the Committee must be a full member of the UIC Graduate Faculty.

Registration

Students must be registered the term in which the Preliminary Examination is taken, even if the exam will occur in the Summer term.  Once the Preliminary Examination is passed, students must maintain registration through the term of successful defense, excluding Summer terms, unless the defense will occur during a Summer term.  If the preliminary exam occurs after a term has ended the registration from the previous semester will cover the student to the first day of the following semester. Students who do not maintain continuous registration after passing the preliminary examination, as described above, may be required to re-take the preliminary examination.

Grading: Each member of the examining committee assigns a grade of “pass” or “fail”. A candidate cannot be passed with more than one “fail” vote. The committee may require that specific conditions be met before the “pass” recommendation becomes effective. On the recommendation of the committee, the head or chair may permit a second examination. A third examination is not permitted.

Procedure: The Dean of the Graduate College appoints the committee upon receipt of the Committee Recommendation Form three (3) weeks prior to the preliminary examination. The results of the examination must be submitted to the Graduate College within two (2) business days of the completion of the exam. The Examination Report must be signed by all members of the Committee. A candidate cannot be passed if more than one vote of “fail” is reported.

Once the student has passed the examination, the Dean of the Graduate College will notify the student that s/he has been admitted to candidacy.

Students who do not complete the degree requirements within five (5) years of passing the preliminary examination must retake the examination; programs may specify a shorter time period. Combined programs leading to two degrees may require additional study beyond the period normally involved for completing requirements for the PhD degree; and may require an extension of the 5 year rule.

Dissertation

Required for the PhD and DA.  The EdD requires a doctoral project that is defended in front of a faculty committee.

Format: The format of the dissertation is specified in the booklet, Thesis Manual , available online. Students should have a draft of their dissertation checked in their department prior to the term they plan to graduate. Programs are responsible for checking the format, and adhering to the guidelines. Students must submit one electronic copy of their defended and departmentally-approved dissertation to the Graduate College by the deadline for that term. An abstract (350 words maximum) must be uploaded into the Electronic Thesis / Dissertation submission system.

Prior Publication of Research Findings: Candidates engaged in thesis research may find it desirable or expedient to publish, prior to the conferring of the degree, certain findings that later will be incorporated in the dissertation. In such cases, appropriate acknowledgment of the earlier publication should be included in the dissertation. The Graduate College encourages such publication, but the dissertation may not be published in its entirety before all degree requirements, including the defense of the dissertation, have been completed.

Defense: The defense of the dissertation is administered after the student has completed all graduation requirements. Only students in good academic standing are permitted to defend their dissertation.

All candidates for the PhD and DA degrees must have an advisor who is a member of the UIC graduate faculty. The advisor is considered the primary reader of the dissertation. The defense must be open to the academic community of the university and be publicly announced one week prior to its occurrence.

The dissertation committee is appointed by the Dean of the Graduate College on the recommendation of the student’s department or program. The defense committee consists of at least five persons, of whom one must be from outside their program. The chair of the committee must be a full member of the UIC graduate faculty. At least two members of the committee must be tenured faculty at UIC; at least one must be from outside the degree-granting program, which may include graduate faculty from other UIC departments or colleges . The outside member can also be from outside the university, in which case the member must demonstrate equivalent academic standards; the members’ curriculum vitae must accompany the Committee Recommendation Form. A Committee Recommendation Form must be submitted to the Graduate College three weeks prior to the dissertation defense.  The Department Head or Director of Graduate Studies signature is required on the Committee Recommendation Form. After the defense, the Examination Report Form must be completed and signed by the committee, The committee vote is “pass” or “fail.” A candidate cannot be passed if more than one vote of “fail” is reported. The, Examination Report Form must sent to the Graduate College before a student is considered to have met the requirements of the dissertation.

All candidates for the EdD degree must have an advisor who is a member of the UIC graduate faculty. The advisor is considered the primary reader of the final doctoral project. The defense must be open to the academic community of the university and be publicly announced one week prior to its occurrence.

The doctoral project committee is appointed by the Dean of the Graduate College on the recommendation of the student’s department or program. The defense committee consists of at least three persons.  An memeber from outside their program is not required but is recommended. The chair of the committee must be a full member of the UIC graduate faculty. A Committee Recommendation Form must be submitted to the Graduate College three weeks prior to the doctoral project defense. The Department Head or Director of Graduate Studies signature is required on the Committee Recommendation Form. After the defense, the Examination Report Form must be completed and signed by the committee, The committee vote is “pass” or “fail.” A candidate cannot be passed if more than one vote of “fail” is reported. The, Examination Report Form must sent to the Graduate College before a student is considered to have met the requirements of the dissertation.

Students must be continuously registered from the term in which the Preliminary Examination is taken through the term of a successful defense (not graduation), excluding Summer terms, unless the defense will occur during a Summer term. If the dissertation defense occurs after a term has ended, through the withdrawal date of the following term (eight-week term in Summer), the student does not have to register if the student was registered the term that just ended. Students who do not maintain continuous registration after passing the preliminary examination, as described above, may be required to re-take the preliminary examination.

Deadlines: One final, approved and defended electronic copy of the dissertation must be submitted to the Graduate College no later than the Graduate College deadline for that term. PhD candidates who successfully defend their dissertation and submit the final dissertation copy to the Graduate College after the deadline will graduate in the next term.

Publishing Fee: Following the final examination and acceptance of the thesis, candidates must pay a publishing fee. Consult the Thesis Manual for more information.

Time Limits

Students admitted to the Graduate College with a master’s degree or who continue in the Graduate College after completing the master’s degree at UIC must complete the degree requirements within seven consecutive calendar years after initial registration as a doctoral student. Students admitted to the Graduate College without a master’s degree who proceed directly to the doctorate must complete degree requirements within nine consecutive calendar years of initial registration as a doctoral student. Students who do not graduate by these deadlines will be dismissed from the Graduate College for failure to progress. Time spent on a leave of absence approved by the program and the Graduate College is not counted toward the degree time limit (see Leave of Absence (PDF) ).

Commencement

Attendance at commencement is voluntary. Because doctoral candidates are individually recognized and hooded by their research advisor at the ceremony, they must inform the Graduate College whether or not they will attend. The yearly commencement exercises in May recognize all students awarded degrees in the previous three terms.  More information .

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Department of Medical Education

Phd in health professions education.

The Department of Medical Education (DME) is thrilled to announce the establishment of a new online PhD program in Health Professions Education (HPE). The PhD in HPE evolved from our successful former collaboration with the UIC College of Education’s Department of Curriculum and Instruction. The PhD in HPE also builds upon the success and strong reputation of DME’s Master of Health Professions Education (MHPE), as well as upon the department’s broader expertise in HPE research and teaching excellence.

Program Overview Heading link Copy link

What is the phd in hpe.

The PhD in HPE program will produce exemplary scholars who advance the field of health professions education by developing innovative research agendas that shape educational policy, standards, and practices, with the ultimate goal of improving healthcare. While the PhD in HPE will share course offerings with DME’s renowned MHPE program, it will include a greater emphasis on research design, data collection, and original scholarship for students who aim to serve as principal investigators in HPE studies in the future.

Who is this program for?

Typical students in the program may include students from a wide range of professional backgrounds, including MDs, other clinicians, and non-clinical educators, aiming to deepen their methodological training and increase their knowledge of the health professions education canon. The student body is also likely to be heterogenous in terms of career stage, and thus may include students ranging from trainees (e.g., residents and fellows) to administrators and leaders (e.g., program directors and deans).

The program is designed for students to have the option to pursue the program on a part-time basis, in conjunction with their regular employment or full-time.

What should students expect to gain?

After completion of the PhD in HPE, students will be able to:

• Integrate theories in the social sciences and health professions to define and understand challenges in health professions education, research, and practice
• Employ a range of relevant research designs, research methodologies, and other scholarly practices to advance the field of health professions education as an independent investigator and eventual leader of a research team
• Situate education and education science within the sociopolitical context of health care and health professions education, and translate educational science into practice
• Additionally, students will have the opportunity to make numerous connections with experts in HPE in order to grow their professional networks.

Program format and cost

What is the program format.

The PhD in Health Professions Education is an online program, though some courses included in the curriculum have short-term, in-person requirements.

What is the cost of the program?

The online tuition is currently $925 per credit plus fees (information about fees can be found on the UIC Registrar’s website. The program/department (DME) does not offer any funding at this time. Graduate funding at UIC is primarily provided to students who attend their programs on a full-time basis; as such, the majority of PhD in HPE students are not eligible for the most common ways that PhD students at UIC fund their graduate degrees. PhD students may be able to seek funding through their employers. Also, all full-time students who are eligible to apply for financial support (e.g., scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships) through the Graduate College will be supported in their applications by departmental and PhD program administration.

Degree Requirements Heading link Copy link

Students must achieve the following requirements to graduate with a PhD in Health Professions Education.

Details on hours

The PhD in HPE degree requires 96 credit hours past the baccalaureate. However, we anticipate that the majority of admitted students will be eligible to receive 32 hours of advanced standing credit for a previously earned relevant master’s degree or advanced clinical degree (e.g., MDs), thus leaving 64 credit hours to complete the degree. (For more details, see FAQs.)

The program consists of several different categories of coursework: Foundational courses, Methodological courses, and HPE Area of Study courses. Many of these courses are shared with the MHPE program; however, students are also welcome to take other UIC courses with DGS and advisor approval.

To accommodate the heterogeneity of the expected student body, the curriculum aims to be quite flexible. Rather than being prescriptive about specific courses, the program focuses on the specific domains and competencies that were determined by program faculty to be fitting for rigorous, doctoral-level training in HPE. Specifically, students will work with their advisors and the Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) to develop programs of study based upon their scholarly and methodological needs.

• View course descriptions

Details of mentorship

Students must complete a mentored, Applied Health Professions Education Experience in order to better facilitate integration of coursework and their understanding of HPE concepts within applied settings. These experiences might include working on DME faculty members’ research projects, engaging in HPE journal editorial work, helping to teach a course taught by a DME faculty member, or something comparable.

There are 3 exams

• Departmental Qualifying Examination: This comprehensive exam will evaluate students’ knowledge of foundational readings within health professions education and their ability to synthesize and critique these readings.
• Graduate College Preliminary Examination: Students are required to draft a dissertation prospectus and defend this prospectus at a virtual hearing in front of their Preliminary Examination committee (and future dissertation committee).
• Dissertation Defense: Students are required to complete a written dissertation with a public, virtual oral defense before their dissertation committee and other members of the academic community.

Dissertation details

PhD in HPE students must complete a Dissertation research project. Dissertation research must include original data collection (i.e., the research needs to include the development of a dataset, identification of sample/analytic subject, etc.). The project can include one large project with multiple components or serial linked studies/experiments. The most common format for the dissertation is the multiple-article model (three publishable articles, plus an introduction and conclusion), though a single monograph is also acceptable.

How to Apply Heading link Copy link

The application deadline for Fall 2025 is December 1 st , 2024. Only two applicants are accepted each year.

All applicants submit materials via Online Application . The Department of Medical Education Admissions Committee will then develop a ranked short list for subsequent interviews with potential PhD advisors. Short-listed applicants will interview (via Zoom) with the DGS and two potential advisors, all of whom will submit reviews for the applicants, which will then be used to develop the final ranked list for admissions.

Please review the admission and application requirements before applying.

Applicants will be informed of admissions decisions in the spring. Please note that all admitted students will be required to attend the 1-week in-person introductory course (MHPE 506), which takes place at the end of July in Chicago.

Application requirements Heading link Copy link

Details on prior degree requirements.

Applicants must have earned a baccalaureate degree.

A combination of a master’s degree in education, social science, or related fields and significant experience in a health professions setting or  A master’s degree in health professions education and/or an advanced professional degree in a health professions discipline.

Applying as a graduate of the Department of Medical Education MHPE program

Graduates of DME’s MHPE are eligible to apply to this program. However, since many of the courses are shared between the two programs, students in this group will need to take a larger proportion of their coursework outside of DME. If you have additional questions about how this works, please contact us for more information.

Transfer credits

Advanced standing credit determinations will be considered for applicants with master’s degrees in health professions education; master’s degrees in education, social science, or related fields; and advanced professional degrees in a health professions discipline. Admitted students may be eligible to receive 32 hours of advanced standing credit for a previously earned relevant master’s degree (or its equivalent; or an advanced clinical degree) toward the minimum 96 semester hours of credit requirement for the doctoral degree.

Transfer of graduate credits from other institutions will be handled on a case-by-case and course-by-course basis, pursuant to the transfer process described on the Graduate College website.

Read more on the policies around transfer of credit on the Graduate College website .

GPA details

Applicant’s previous grade point average must be above 3.75 on a 5-point scale or 3.0 on a 4-point scale.

Which tests to take

The GRE is not required for this program; however, applicants may submit their scores if they wish.

Applicants whose native language is not English must take either the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the exam of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or the Pearson’s PTE Academic. The test score cannot be more than two years old. For English proficiency test score minimums, reporting requirements, and exemptions, see the UIC Admissions International Requirements page for more details.

• UIC Admissions International Requirements

Review for submitting

To be considered for the PhD in HPE, students must demonstrate either credentials or experience in health professions education. Additionally, applicants must be actively engaged in, or preparing for, health professions educations scholarship. Applicants should demonstrate this engagement through their application materials. Applicants must submit:

• UIC online graduate application  (All application materials must be submitted through the UIC online graduate application.)
• Registrar-issued transcripts from each college and professional school attended
• Letters of Recommendation (3)
• Recommendation letters should address the applicant’s academic qualifications, research ability/experience, and ability to carry out advanced degree studies (including institutional/financial support, if available)
• Your background and/or experiences (past or present) that are relevant to the field of health professions education (these may include research, teaching, curricular development, administration, etc.).
• Future potential research agenda – please include at least one future project idea.
• Fit with program and why the applicant is pursuing the PhD in HPE at DME
• Applicant characteristics or experience likely to contribute to applicant success in the PhD program, including experience with online/virtual learning, prior graduate programs, institutional support, local mentorship, etc.
• If applicants are planning to pursue the degree in connection with their employment (i.e., part-time), they also must include a statement of how the doctoral program of study will fit in with their professional schedules and commitments.
• A Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting research, teaching, and service experience, particularly in HPE

Read if you are applying from outside the United States

International applicants must follow all UIC Admissions International Requirements for graduate admission. Please visit the UIC Admissions website for more details.

The Office of International Services is working to obtain authorization to allow international students to be admitted to this new academic program. In the event that the authorization is not in place in time prior to the start of the term of admission, admitted international students may defer their admission until the following year.

Contact for more program info Heading link Copy link

Laura e. hirshfield, laura schaaf, thank you to the uic college of education heading link copy link.

In 2010, the Department of Medical Education, in collaboration with faculty in the College of Education, developed an area of emphasis within the PhD in Curriculum and Instruction for students interested in Health Professions Education and Curriculum. This concentration in Curriculum Studies/Critical Pedagogies and Urban Teacher Education (Health Professions Education Area of Emphasis) focused on the exploration of curriculum across multiple educational contexts. The program has successfully graduated a diverse set of students from a variety of social identities, professional backgrounds, and ranks within their profession.

The Department of Medical Education is extremely grateful for the long-term collaborative relationship it has had with the College of Education, especially with the CS/CPUTE program. The department will continue to support students who are currently enrolled in the Collaborative PhD program; however, DME will no longer admit new students into the HPE Area of Emphasis. Instead, the PhD in HPE will effectively replace this offering.

FAQs Heading link Copy link

Q: what is the difference between the mhpe and phd in hpe.

A: The PhD in HPE is similar in content to the MHPE, except that it focuses on developing in students a deeper methodological training, with increased independence and greater knowledge of the HPE canon. The goal of the PhD program is to shift students away from the more applied focus of the MHPE to a broader scholarly, theoretical approach. Specifically, the PhD in HPE shares course offerings with the MHPE program, but the program has a greater emphasis on research design, data collection, and original scholarship for students who wish to serve as principal investigators in HPE studies.

Q: Why should someone pursue a PhD in HPE at DME?

A:  DME’s PhD in HPE is focused on training our students to become independent researchers and scholars in health professions education. Graduates of the HPE PhD program would be particularly well poised to be hired by health professions scholarship units (or organizations and institutions that  “share a commitment to the production and dissemination of rigorous educational practices and research” ). Clinical faculty who are heavily involved in health professions education research that guides educational policy or practice may also find the degree valuable for deepening their research expertise.

Q: What are you looking for in applicants?

A: To be considered for the PhD in HPE, students must demonstrate either credentials or experience in health professions education. Typical students may include MDs, other clinicians (e.g., nurses and physical therapists), and non-clinical educators (e.g., student services or curricular affairs) aiming to deepen their methodological training and increase their knowledge of the health professions education canon. We welcome applicants from a variety of career stages. That said, all applicants must be actively engaged in, or preparing for, health professions educations scholarship. Applicants should demonstrate this engagement through their application materials.

Q: Is the program entirely online?

A:  No, not entirely.  Students are required to come to Chicago for the 1-week on-campus orientation course (MHPE 506), in which they are introduced to core course content and faculty and begin to develop the peer relationships that will form the basis of a lasting community of practice. For students who are not able to attend (e.g., international students unable to attain short-term visas) alternative opportunities for participation will be negotiated with course faculty members. Some MHPE courses may also have additional on-site components.

Q: How long does it take to complete the program?

A:  It’s hard to say, as it really varies based on a lot of different factors (i.e., if the student must complete 64 or 96 credit hours; how many credit hours a student takes each semester; when courses are offered and the availability in them; how long it takes the student to complete the exams and the dissertation; etc.).  The program will adhere to UIC Graduate College timelines for student completion of the program ( https://grad.uic.edu/doctoral-degrees/ ).

Q: How many courses/credits should I take each semester?

A:  It depends on your workload outside of the PhD in HPE. Most of our students will take the program part-time while they are working full-time; these students generally will take 4-6 credits per semester. Students should work with their advisor and PhD Director of Graduate Studies (DGS) to develop a plan that works best for them.

Q: What is advanced standing credit?

A:  Admitted students may be eligible to receive 32 hours of advanced standing credit for a previously earned relevant master’s degree (or its equivalent; or an advanced clinical degree) toward the minimum 96 semester hours of credit requirement for the doctoral degree, thus making it 64 credit hours to complete the doctoral degree.  For consideration, the degree must be posted as completed on a transcript from an accredited institution, and, if international, equivalent to a U.S. master’s degree (as determined by the Graduate Admissions Office and the Graduate College).  Students who are not granted advanced standing credit will be required to complete 32 additional credit hours of 400-level and 500-level coursework in related areas.  A minimum of 16 of these credit hours must be letter-graded courses (A to F), rather than project or thesis credits. For more information on advancing standing credit, please see the UIC Graduate College website :

Q: Where can I learn more about the coursework taken in the program?

A:  The program consists of several different categories of coursework: Foundational courses, Methodological courses, and HPE Area of Study courses. Many of these courses are shared with the MHPE program; however, students are also welcome to take other UIC courses with DGS and advisor approval.

For more information about the above mentioned MHPE courses, please go to the MHPE brochure  https://chicago.medicine.uic.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/04/MHPE-Information-Brochure.pdf

Q: Can graduates of the DME MHPE program apply?

A: Yes, graduates of DME’s MHPE are eligible to apply to this program. However, since many of the courses are shared between the two programs, students in this group will need to take a larger proportion of their coursework outside of DME. If you have additional questions about how this works, please contact us for more information.

Q: How much does the program cost?

A:  The cost of the program varies depending on how many credits you need to complete.  The program requires at least 96 credits from the baccalaureate or at least 64 credits from the master’s degree.  Doctoral students who have previously earned a relevant master’s degree (or its equivalent) from UIC or another accredited institution or health professionals with advanced degrees (e.g., MD, DO, DDS, PA, DPT, etc) may possibly be granted 32 semester hours of credit toward the doctoral degree if approved by the program and the Graduate College at the time of admission. The 32 hours are subtracted from the total hours required for the degree.  Degree equivalency from foreign institutions is determined by the Office of Admissions. To calculate online tuition please see the UIC Registrar’s Graduate Tuition and Fees website:   https://registrar.uic.edu/financial-matters/graduate-tuition-and-fees/ .

Q: Is there funding available?

A: The program/department (DME) does not offer any funding at this time. The majority of PhD in HPE students are not eligible for the most common ways that UIC PhD students fund their graduate degrees; specifically, funding is most often made available only to full-time graduate students. That said, full-time students who are eligible to apply for financial support (e.g., scholarships, fellowships, or assistantships) through the Graduate College https://grad.uic.edu/funding-awards/ will be supported in their applications by departmental and PhD program administration. PhD students may also be able to seek funding through their employers.

Q: How many students are accepted each year?

A: At this time, we are only able to accept up to two students per year.

University of Illinois Cancer Center

Soroush Tahmasebi, MD, PhD

Assistant Professor

Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine

Research Program

Cancer Biology

Email: [email protected]

Soroush Tahmasebi, MD, PhD, is Assistant Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Regenerative Medicine at the University of Illinois College of Medicine Chicago. The Tahmasebi Lab studies mRNA translational control. The research is particularly focused on the regulation of protein synthesis in response to stress. 

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Stritch School of Medicine

Master's in Neuroscience

Developing outstanding neuroscientists committed to scientific excellence and integrity.

The Master of Science (MS) in Neuroscience is a two-year, research-intensive program designed to provide a foundational understanding of the biomedical sciences and an appreciation for emerging concepts and methodologies in neuroscience.  Our master's degree program provides an interdepartmental and interdisciplinary approach to training in neuroscience that allows students to choose from a variety of research mentors and projects. During their training, our students develop the knowledge and confidence to utilize cutting edge techniques to address novel neuroscience questions and the communication skills necessary to succeed in challenging academic and industry environments.

Our graduates have gained admission to medical school (both allopathic or osteopathic), as well as PhD programs at Loyola and other top schools in the Chicago area and beyond. Many graduates have also obtained advanced technical research positions as well as sales and marketing jobs in the pharmaceutical industry.

Study With One of the Nation's Top Neuroscience Masters Programs

Loyola University Chicago's Master's in Neuroscience was recently recognized as one of the nations top graduate programs by Best Value Schools, ranking #9 of the " Best 15 Masters in Neuroscience Programs 2024 ". Whether you're looking to deepen your understanding of neural systems, pursue a career in research, or prepare for further studies, our program provides the resources and expertise to help you succeed.

Our Commitment To You

Graduates of Loyola's MS in Neuroscience will gain the following knowledge, skills, and professional values to pursue a career as a research scientist in academia or industry or pursue additional education.

• Foundational understanding of the biochemical and molecular basis of cell function and neuronal and glial cell function
• Broad, comprehensive understanding of the neuroscience fields including: neuroanatomy, neurochemistry, molecular neurobiology, neuropharmacology, neurophysiology, and behavior
• Expertise in several scientific techniques to study of the function of the central and/or peripheral nervous system

SKILLS  

• Design and conduct experiments independently
• Analyze data
• Evaluate and apply scientific literature to experimental research
• Ability to present scientific work in a compelling manner
• Develop methodologies to explore the cellular and molecular basis of neuronal function in health and disease

PROFESSIONAL VALUES  

• Ethical standards of behavior in science

Students must complete a minimum of 30 credtis during this two-year MS program.  The Neuroscience curriculum helps students develop the skills to explore the cellular and molecular basis of neuronal function in health and disease. In addition to regular coursework, students must participate in a student-centered weekly journal club and weekly neuroscience seminars and student progress reports. Both are intended to facilitate students’ abilities to critically read, question, and synthesize scientific knowledge and to hone their presentation skills.

YEAR 1 - Fall 

Students complete two, six-week research rotations in addition to the following courses:

• BMSC 410 - Biochemistry & Molecular Biology (4 credits)
• BMSC 412 - Cell Biology (4 credits)
• BMSC 416 - Methods in Biomedical Science (1 credit)
• BMSC 405 - Ethics in Biomedical Sciences (1 credit)
• NRSC 503 - Neuroscience Journal Club (1 credit)

YEAR 1 - Spring 

• BMSC 402 - Statistical Methods in Biomedical Sciences (3 credits)
• NRSC 410 - Cell and Molecular Neurobiology (3 credits)
• NRSC 503 - Neuroscience Seminar (0 credits)
• NRSC 499 - Research (2 credits)
• BMSC 418 - Presentation Skills (1 credit)

YEAR 2- Fall  

• NRSC 415 - Neurochemistry (3 credits)
• NRSC 499 - Research (4 credits)

YEAR 2 - Spring  

• NRSC 595 - Thesis Supervision (0 credits)

Course Catalog

• Neuroscience MS Course Catalog

Ready to apply? This is a good place to start.

APPLICATION DEADLINES  

We accept applications on a rolling basis. We encourage students to apply by April 15 to ensure their application receives a full review. The deadline for all application materials is June 15. Typically, orientation is two days in late July, followed by an early August start date.

APPLICATION PROCESS  (There is no application fee.)

1. COMPLETED APPLICATION

• We strongly urge you to apply online . You may mail your application (although that will delay our receipt) to: Graduate and Professional Enrollment Management Loyola University Chicago 820 N. Michigan Avenue, Suite 1200 Chicago, IL 60611

2. OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTS

• Applicants should have earned a bachelor's degree (at minimum) to apply. Transcripts for all undergraduate and graduate work are required for admission.
• The MS in Neuroscience program requires applicants to have taken two semesters or the equivalent in each of the following: Biology, Chemistry, and Organic Chemistry. Students also should have completed the accompanying laboratory courses within each discipline.

3. LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION

• Applicants must submit three letters of recommendation. We encourage applicants to have letters of recommendation submitted by individuals who have supervised the student either in an academic course or research environment, and who have direct knowledge of the student's aptitude for scientific research.

4. STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

• Your statement of purpose should be a brief, one page statement that explains your interest in this program.

5. INTERVIEW

• A virtual interview is required for admission. International applicants can interview via phone or video conference.

Please note: the only documents that cannot be uploaded with an application are transcripts and official test scores. Please send those documents directly to: [email protected] .

FOR INTERNATIONAL APPLICANTS

International applicants must have a degree equivalent to a U.S. Bachelor's degree and are required to submit the above documents and:

• TOEFL or IELTS scores
• A Declaration and Certification of Finances Form
• Evaluations of international transcripts by any member organization of  NACES (National Association of Credential Evaluation Services) 

Please visit our  International Student Requirements  page for more details!

Please note: the only documents that cannot be uploaded with an application are transcripts, official test scores, and transcript evaluations. Please send those documents directly to: [email protected]

For more information, contact Student Program Recruiter Patrick Hulseman .

Request more information about our graduate programs.

WHERE ARE THESE PROGRAMS LOCATED?

The Biomedical Sciences programs are located at Loyola University Chicago's Health Sciences Campus in Maywood, approximately 12 miles west of downtown Chicago. The campus is home to the Stritch School of Medicine, Marcella Niehoff School of Nursing, the Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health, the Cardinal Bernardin Cancer Center, and Loyola Medicine, our academic medical center partner. The campus features state-of-the-art facilities for education and biomedical research.

HOW MANY STUDENTS ARE ENROLLED IN THE BIOMEDICAL SCIENCES PROGRAMS?

Approximately 175 graduate students are enrolled in Loyola's Biomedical Science programs.

WHAT IS THE TYPICAL COURSEWORK?

MS students enroll in a Core Curriculum during their first and second semesters, followed by advanced coursework and research training in their area of specialization. After completing lab rotations, students select an advisor who will mentor them throughout their studies and in many cases, after graduation. 

Tuition and Financial Aid

Loyola's Graduate School and its Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure the financial resources to make their education at Loyola affordable.

• Financial Aid

JOANNA C. BAKOWSKA, PhD Associate Professor, Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD- Molecular and Behavioral Neuroscience, Rutgers Research Interests: Genetic, behavioral, and cellular mechanisms that underlie spastic paraplegias.

ED CAMPBELL, PhD Professor, Microbiology and Immunology PhD- Microbiology and Immunology, University of Illinois at Chicago Research Interests: Understanding the mechanisms of cellular invasion by amyloid protein aggregates associated with neurodegenerative disease and the cellular dysfunction induced by such invasion.

EILEEN FOECKING, PhD Associate Professor, Otolaryngology - Head and Neck Surgery and Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD- Neurobiology and Physiology, Northwestern University Research Interests: Mechanisms of peripheral nerve injury and repair with focus on therapeutic and surgical techniques to enhance regeneration.

ROCCO GOGLIOTTI, PhD Assistant Professor, Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD- Biomedical Research, Northwestern University Research Interests: Neurogenetics of autism and autism-associated disorders and the neuropharmacology of novel treatment strategies.

CELESTE GREER, PhD Assistant Professor, Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD- Pharmacology, Yale University Research Interests:  Transcriptional mechanisms that influence learning and memory

SIMON KAJA, PhD Associate Professor, Dr. John P. and Therese E. Mulcahy Endowed Professor in Ophthalmology PhD- Leiden University, Ophthalmology and Molecular Pharmacology & Neuroscience Research Interests: Identification of pathophysiological mechanisms underlying human ophthalmic, neurological and neurodegenerative disorders.

KELLEY LANGERT, PhD Assistant Professor, Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD- Neuroscience, Loyola University Chicago Research Interests: Targeted drug delivery to the inflamed peripheral nerve, identifying novel therapeutic targets at the blood-nerve barrier and the leukocyte-endothelial interface, elucidating the physiological and pathophysiological roles of monomeric GTPases in endothelial cells.

TONI PAK, PhD James R. DePauw Professor and Chair, Department of Cell and Molecular Physiology PhD- Neuroscience, University of Colorado (Boulder) Research Interests: Neuroendocrine regulation of puberty; molecular mechanisms of nuclear steroid receptor function.

ERIKA PIEDRAS-RENTERIA, PhD Associate Professor, Cell and Molecular Physiology PhD- Physiology, University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Research Interests: Molecular mechanisms of neuronal P/Q calcium channel function in normal and diseased states, including spinocerebellar ataxia type 6 (SCA6).

KARIE SCROGIN, PhD Professor, Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD- Behavioral Neuroscience, Oregon Health Sciences University Research Interests: Anxiety, mood disorders and neural control of circulation in heart disease.

MEHARVAN SINGH, PhD Vice Provost of Research and Professor of Cellular and Molecular Physiology PhD- Pharmaceutical Sciences, University of Florida Research Interests: Role of gonodal hormones in aging brain and age-assocaiated neurodgenerative diseases

MONSHEEL SODHI, PhD Assistant Professor, Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD- Biochemistry, Kings of College London, U.K. Research Interests: Post-transcriptional regulation of gene expression (RNA editing, alternative splicing, microRNAs) in mood disorders, psychosis and after exposure to stress.

EVAN B. STUBBS, JR. PhD Professor, Ophthalmology PhD- Biochemistry, University of Missouri Research Interests: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Metabolic and Acquired Neuropathies, including diabetic neuropathy, glaucomatous neuropathy, and acquired inflammatory demyelinating neuropathies such as Guillain-Barré Syndrome.

GONZALO TORRES, PhD Professor of Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD - Pharmacology and Physiology, Saint Louis University Research Interest:  Function and regulation of brain monoamine transporters in the context of psychostimulants and antidepressants actions

ERIC VILLALON LANDEROS, PhD Assistant Professor of Molecular Pharmacology and Neuroscience PhD - University of Missouri, Neuroscience Research interests: Cell and molecular basis of Neuronal Membrane Proteasome(NMP)-dependent signaling modulation of pain and itch sensation.

DEREK WAINRIGHT, PhD Associate Professor, Cancer Biology MS, PhD – Cell Biology Neurobiology, and Anatomy, Loyola University Chicago Research Interests:  Neuroimmunology and glioblastoma therapy